Tobak Korean Restaurant — Restaurant in Jakarta

Our first visit to Tobak left us utterly disappointed. Despite the sparse crowd with only two occupied tables, the service was excruciatingly slow. Even after our drinks arrived, we waited an eternity for the complimentary appetizers, which eventually came in the form of two measly plates.

Opting for the beef intestines, we were appalled to find that the price had increased to 950 KIDR. Upon its arrival, the dish bore no resemblance to the advertised image, containing only three slices of beef tongue. When we questioned the disparity, we were curtly informed that it was indeed three slices, no more. To add insult to injury, the server remedied the situation by tossing three additional pieces into the pot without so much as an apology.

Furthermore, the hygiene standards of the establishment were abysmal, with cockroaches scurrying across the tables. Even the menu presented to us was infested with these pests, a nauseating sight that tainted our entire dining experience. Our request to speak with the manager was futile, as we were informed he/she was out on break and unavailable.

In summary, it was a deeply disappointing dining affair. Despite the exorbitant prices, the lackluster service and mediocre taste left much to be desired. Needless to say, we will not be returning to this restaurant...

(Free refill Banchan & Corn Tea) The Banchan tasted just okay—slightly bland for my palate. I personally prefer the ones at Mr. Park, Yongdaeri, or Magal.

-Samgyeopsal (IDR 210K) Meat was served plain. Approximate meat weight: ±130 grams. Served with sesame oil, salt & pepper for dipping.

-Tteok Mandu Guk (IDR 150K) Contains 3 pieces of mandu, beef slices, tteok (rice cake), and scrambled egg. The broth is quite salty and fairly thick.

-Gwangyang Bulgogi (IDR 440K) Too pricey for what you get. Approximate meat weight: ±130 grams. Served with sesame oil, salt & pepper for dipping.

-Steamed Rice (IDR 35K/portion) Served in a hot stone bowl. The rice was very soft and the portion size was generous.

Dessert: Coffee, watermelon, and Sikhye (a ginger-flavored drink made from fermented rice and malt).

P.S.: -Restaurant's staffs service was less responsive. It was a bit difficult to get their attention even when they looked in my direction. -Meat can be grilled at the table or in the kitchen. -There will be an additional fee of 9% service charge and 10% tax from the prices mentioned in the menu. -Valet parking charges are paid based on how much you’re willing to give/pay-as-you-wish/a voluntary tip. In addition to that, a card will be given to you as proof of your valet...

Tobak holds a special place in my heart that endures the test of time. It was my grandfather's favorite restaurant, so it has been around for a very, very, long time.

Saying that it is an exceptional place to dine in cannot fully encompass the scope of my cherished memories here in this particular restaurant. It advertises itself as an authentic Korean dining establishment for a good reason. Where one can make comparisons to other Korean restaurants to each other, Tobak is sublime in that the experience and taste of its dishes feels intrinsically its own while others of its genre may sometime blend together.

Its not difficult to see I may be biased, but this comes from a place of experience where even if my dining ventures are years apart from each other, it is safe for me to say that every dish remains an invincible dining experience that remains a personal landmark where others around it might change.

Tobak is a place best experienced in small doses or during gatherings as the price can punch a nasty blow to your wallet. Even still, it is a personal must go if you have never visited Tobak.

It is a restaurant that has stood the test of time where others have come and gone and I hope you the viewer have a chance to...